Episodes
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We Are Together
picture taken during the Pamoja conference in Tanzania. Based on John 3: 1-17, this sermon, preached on the Second Sunday in Lent, speaks about the mystery of God’s creative Spirit that links us to Christ and brings us together. We Are Together The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Listening On the Mountain
picture that I took while watching the sun rise - N’an’ange, Tanzania. Based on Matthew 17: 1-9, this sermon, preached on Transfiguration Sunday, speaks about God’s call to discipleship, to follow in the ways of Jesus. Listening on the Mountain The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Making the Music of Christ Together
Based on Matthew 4: 12-22, this sermon, preached on St. James Lutheran’s Annual Meeting Sunday, speaks about Jesus’s call to repentance as an invitation to discipleship. Making The Music of Christ Together The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Baptized, Present, and Longing
Based on Matthew 3:13-17, this sermon, preached on The Baptism of Our Lord, speaks about the Christian’s need to be both available in the present as well as participating in the coming Kingdom of God. In it, I mention my beginning preparations for the Pastoral Mission to Tanzania that I will be...
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Starting Vision for a New Year and a New Decade
Here is the first sermon that I preached in 2020. Based on John 1:10-18, this message seeks a vision from scripture to head into the New Year and the New Decade of the 2020’s. Starting Vision for a New Year and a New Decade The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Resurrected Children of God
I preached this sermon on November 10, 2019. It is based on Luke 21. Responding to the pointed questions of his critics, Jesus gives the image of being a child of the resurrection. He invites us into that new identity. Resurrected Children of God The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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For ALL the broken, beloved, and imperfect saints of God
I preached this sermon on All Saints Sunday, November 3, 2019. It is based on the appointed text from Luke’s gospel. Jesus teaches in the beatitudes about blessings and woes. He invites us to love. As a community of faith and struggle, we respond together sharing our gifts of time, talent, and...
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Practicing Reformation
I preached this sermon on Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2019. It is based on the appointed text from John 8. Jesus invites us to be active and practice our faith. Knowing that this can be a hard thing to do, God gives us the Spirit that reforms, renews, and reshapes our spiritual lives.…
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Picking Up the Sidewalk Chalk
I preached this sermon on Sunday, October 6. It is based on an expanded lectionary reading of Luke 17: [1-4] 5- and centers on Jesus’s teaching about forgiveness. We are invited by our Lord to participate in acts of forgiveness on a regular basis. It is not always easy and can often be messy.…
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The Next 80 Years
I preached this sermon on the 80th Anniversary celebration worship of St. James Lutheran Church. It is based on Luke 15 and the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin. Jesus shares these parables of God’s kingdom to let us know about God’s unbounded love, grace, and hospitality. The church is…
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Beyond Our Tribe
I preached this sermon on Rally Day, which is the start of the ministry year in September. It is based on Luke 14:25-33, which is one of Jesus’s hardest teachings. Jesus invites his disciples to push away from or reject tribal connections that separate and get in the way of the expanding nature…
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Following the Law of Love
In this sermon, based on the story of Jesus’s healing on a Sabbath (found in Luke chapter 13), I look at the gospel’s invitation to follow God’s law of love over those things that prevent us from so doing. Following The Law of Love The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Letting the Air Out of Greed
In this sermon, based on Jesus’s teaching on greed (found in Luke 12), I look at the gospel’s invitation to turn our energy and effort outward in the direction of God. Letting the Air Out of Greed The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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A Praying People
In this sermon, based on the story of Jesus teaching his disciples to pray from Luke’s Gospel, I look at how we pray. God teaches us to be A Praying People A Praying People The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Listening to the God that is Close
In this sermon, based on the story of Martha and Mary from Luke’s Gospel, I look at the importance of focusing and centered ourselves in God’s ever near presence. I use the experience of St. James Lutheran Church’s trip to the Badlands as an illustration. Listening To the God That Is Close The…
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Traveling with Mercy
I preached this sermon on July 14, the Sunday before leaving on a church trip to the Badlands, South Dakota. It is based on Jesus’s parable of the Good Samaritan (found in Luke 10.). Jesus places defines neighbor in wide terms and invites us to do the same as we seek to love God and be faithful...
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Unending Easter
I preached this sermon on the Seventh Sunday of Easter. It is based on Jesus’s prayer of unity for his disciples (found in John 17.). Jesus places love at the heart of relationships for the church and in the extended lives of his followers. Unending Easter The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Easter - Listening to God's Voice
I preached this sermon on the Fourth Sunday of Easter. It is based on John 10:22-30. Jesus makes listening to his voice and following his actions the hallmark of belonging to Christian community. Easter - Listening to God's Voice The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Easter - Breath in the Midst of Fears and Doubts
I preached this sermon on the Second Sunday of Easter. It is based on an Easter story from John 20:19-31. In the midst of a locked room, Christ enters and breathes new life, animating believers and the church. Easter - Breath in the Midst of Fears and Doubts The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Easter Hope Shining Through
I preached this sermon on Easter Sunday. It is based on the Easter story from Luke Chapter 24. In the midst of darkness, pain, and the world’s hatred, Easter shines the light of resurrection and hope. Easter Hope Shining Through The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Signs of Spring
I preached this sermon, based on Luke 13:1-9, on the Third Sunday in Lent. Jesus’s teaching is interrupted by questions from the crowd regarding recent tragedies and whether they could be considered as the judgment of God. Through the telling of a parable, Jesus invites us to think about God in...
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Our Mother God Gathering Us In
I preached this sermon, based on Luke 13:31-35, on the Second Sunday in Lent. In the face of recent acts of violence and hatred, like the massacre in the mosque in New Zealand, God offers us an alternative to meeting violence with violence or running away. Jesus invites us along the path of love…
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Starting Anew
I preached this sermon, based on Luke 4, on the First Sunday in Lent. In it, I hold up look at the foundation of God’s love and our identity as a Child of God as critical resources in the midst of life’s challenges. Starting Anew The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Marked with Love
I preached this sermon, based on Matthew 6, on Ash Wednesday. In it, I hold up the dual reality of being both broken and beloved. Lent is a wonderful opportunity to grow in our awareness of God’s love and grace. Marked with Love The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Mountain Glories in Deep Valleys
This sermon, based on Luke 9: 28-37 , I preached on Transfiguration Sunday. In it, I explore the amazing presence of God’s love in both the high and low points of life and our call as followers of Jesus to re-present God’s grace in all that we do. Mountain Glories in Deep Valleys The Rev. Dr.…
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The Harder Kind of Love
In this sermon, based on Luke 6:27-38, I look at the first of Jesus’s ethical teachings in the Sermon on the Plain - love your enemies. In a world that is filled with reciprocity and revenge - which deteriorate into violence - it seems a strange command. In light, however, of the kingdom of God…
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Choose Kind
In this sermon, based on Luke 6:17-26, I look at Jesus teaching of blessings and woe, set in the context of a world where things are broken. By the grace of God we are blessed, loved, and forgiven. We encounter woe as we turn away from God’s path of love and kindness. I preached this sermon on…
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Loving Beyond the Doors
In this sermon, based on Luke 4:11-30, I look at Jesus’ call to move beyond tribal affiliations and love. This love is radical in nature and goes beyond our inclinations as it extends to even our enemies. Loving Beyond the Doors The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Pray Always - Week Three - Pray For Your Church
Pastor Walt preaches a three-part series on prayer. Week three, based on Luke 4:14-21 (the start of Jesus’ public ministry in Luke’s gospel), looks at the need for prayer for the sake of the church and its ministry. Pray Always - part 3 - pray for the church The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger Week...
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Pray Always - A Three Week Series on Prayer - Week Two - Unending Feast
Pastor Walt preaches a three-part series on prayer. Week two, based on John 2:1-11 (the wedding feast at Cana), looks at praying during times of need for ourselves and others. Unending Feast - Prayer Series - Part 2 of 3 The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger Week one, based on Luke 3:21-22, looks at…
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Pray Always - A Three Week Series on Prayer - Week One - Wet with Promise
Pastor Walt preaches a three-part series on prayer. Week one, based on Luke 3:21-22, looks at the role that prayer can play in the life of the Baptized. Wet with Promise - Prayer Series - Part 1 of 3 The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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The Day of Epiphany - January 6 - A Blessed House
I preached this sermon on Epiphany. It is based on Matthew 2 and the story of the magi. Seeking God, engaging scripture, worship, and giving - these practices are all good for us as Christians as we enter a new year. A Blessed House The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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Christmas 2018 - Keep the Light On
I preached this sermon on Christmas Eve. It is based on Luke 2 and celebrates the light of Christ. In the darkness of our world and lives, God shines light. As Christians, we are called keep this light burning bright. Keep the Light On The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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WEEK THREE: Threshold Advent Sermon Series
“Threshold” is a three-week, Advent sermon series based on Isaiah. Called the “fifth” gospel by some prominent early Christians, the book of Isaiah is a perennial favorite during the season of Advent. It’s poetic prophesies help us to understand and anticipate the Christ who comes to us. The...
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WEEK TWO: Threshold Advent Sermon Series
“Threshold” is a four-week, Advent sermon series based on Isaiah. Called the “fifth” gospel by some prominent early Christians, the book of Isaiah is a perennial favorite during the season of Advent. It’s poetic prophesies help us to understand and anticipate the Christ who comes to us. The...
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Week ONE: Threshold Advent Sermon Series
“Threshold” is a four-week, Advent sermon series based on Isaiah. Called the “fifth” gospel by some prominent early Christians, the book of Isaiah is a perennial favorite during the season of Advent. It’s poetic prophesies help us to understand and anticipate the Christ who comes to us. The...
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What Large Stones!
In this sermon, based on Mark 13:1-8, I look at Jesus’ teaching about God’s presence in the midst of trouble and our call to live out our baptismal calling. I mention a local elementary school and how local teachers (some who are from St. James) are making a difference as they work with parents…
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Walking In Step with God
In this sermon, based on Mark 12:38-44, I look at Jesus’ teaching about aligning our steps with God’s Word. Putting faith into tangible action is important in our spiritual journey. In this sermon, I mention the ELCA Regional Bishop’s statement on the 80th Anniversary of Kristalnacht. To read the...
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Beyond What's Printed on the Box
In this sermon, based on Mark 10:35-45, I reflect upon Jesus’ teaching on social ranking, worth, and service. Jesus invites his followers to serve others and to locate their worth in God’s expansive love for them. Beyond What's Printed on the Box The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
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The Challenge of Giving Our Pile Away
In this sermon, based on Mark 10:17-31, I reflect upon Jesus’ teaching on wealth. Jesus challenges the idea that wealth is a reflection of God’s special favor. Instead, he speaks frankly of the difficulty that wealth poses to discipleship. Giving is a spiritual practice that acknowledges God’s…
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Broken Hearts Centered in Love
In this sermon, based on Mark 10:1-16, I reflect upon Jesus’ teaching on relationship and his response to brokenness. Though these passages have been and still are used to exclude people who are divorced, such interpretations are more in line with the Pharisee’s strict legalism. Excluding and...
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Adding A Little Salt
In this sermon, based on Mark 9:37-50, I reflect upon Jesus’ teaching to be grounded in God’s love. In a time that is filled with political division and animosity, we can find hope in the Jesus’ invitation to be salt and connect with the love of God. Adding A Little Salt The Rev. Dr. Walt...
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All Are Welcome?
?????? I preached this sermon based on Mark 9: 30-37. In this story, Jesus takes the opportunity of a dispute among his disciples to teach them about welcome and hospitality. Christians of every age are invited to consider who is considered to be the least among them and then to show honor and...
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A Good Start
I preached this sermon on the first Sunday of a new ministry year. Many churches have a 'start-up' or 'Rally Day' Sunday on the week following the Labor Day holiday. It is a time to get 'back-to-church' and renew ministries. Following the beginning of a school year, there seems to be a natural...
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From the Heart of the Matter
In this sermon, based on Mark 7, I explore what lies at the heart of our worship and living with God. The Pharisees get into a debate with Jesus about Jesus' disciples and their inability to properly follow the tradition and rituals of the time. Jesus counters by saying that what is most…
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Broken Bodies Coming to Believe
Based on John 6:56-69, this sermon is the last in my 'Bread of Life' series as I follow the Revised Common Lectionary. In it, I focus on the experience of living in the transitional times of life. Faced with change, we need to say goodbye to the past and be open to the future. Saying goodbye to...
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Fresh, Living Bread
Once again, the metaphor of Jesus being the Bread of Life comes up in the Revised Common Lectionary. For the past four weeks, our gospel has dwelt in this image. Today, my sermon (based on John 6: 35-41-51) focused on the wisdom of God and the meal of communion in which God is present. In both...
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Are You Hungry? Connecting Food and Faith.
Food is essential. All living things on this planet need to eat to survive and thrive. In this sermon, based on John 6, I look at the power of food to connect life. In particular, I focus on the Bread of Life - a title that Jesus claims for himself in John's Gospel. Jesus offers his life to…
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Feeling Empty? Afraid you Don't have Enough in Your Tank?
This sermon, based on John 6:1-21, starts with that horrible feeling of not having enough. Jesus' disciple, Philip, reports that there are not enough resources to feed the large crowd that gathers around Jesus at the time of Passover. Fear causes us to narrow our focus on ourselves and we forget…
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Where Are You From?
In this sermon, based on Mark 6: 1-13, I proclaim God's steadfast love for all people. Jesus invites the people in his hometown to turn toward God and embrace the welcoming message of love that God has for all. It is not well received among those who want to claim special access to Jesus. The...
About this show
Weekly Sermons by The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger
Hosted by
The Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger, Pastor of St. James Lutheran Church